As North America’s leading trade show dedicated to 3D printing, RAPID + TCT represents a unique glimpse into the development of the additive manufacturing (AM) industry on the continent. This year’s event showcased the latest stage of evolution for the sector: integration into the industrial production ecosystem. The technology is no longer interning as a prototyping tool, nor is it an entry-level jig and fixture apprentice. AM is entering the manufacturing workforce to produce end components.
From Medical to Military 3D Printing
This was in part evidenced by the presentations given at the event. Talks like “Regulatory Considerations for Hospital-based 3D Printing” weren’t about simply qualifying 3D printed items and proving out the technology. Instead, they were more nuanced. For instance, Dr. Jonathan Morris, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic, noted that the industry…